Atripla vs. Triumeq for HIV Treatment: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Atripla (efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir) and Triumeq (abacavir/dolutegravir/lamivudine) are both single-tablet regimens used to treat HIV, but they have some key differences. Atripla contains a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) and two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), while Triumeq includes an integrase inhibitor and two NRTIs. Atripla must be taken on an empty stomach, preferably at bedtime to avoid side effects like dizziness, whereas Triumeq can be taken with or without food. Triumeq requires a genetic test before starting to check for a risk of serious allergic reactions, which is not needed for Atripla. Additionally, Atripla is available as a generic, making it potentially more affordable, while Triumeq is not. Both medications have significant side effects and interactions, but Atripla is particularly noted for its potential to cause kidney and bone problems, while Triumeq has a higher risk of severe allergic reactions and liver issues.

Atripla

Get free coupons

Triumeq

Get free coupons

Summary for Atripla

Prescription only

Atripla is a combination antiviral medication used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It's a tablet that has three active ingredients: efavirenz, emtricitabine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). Atripla is for adults and children who weigh at least 88 lbs. You take it once a day by mouth on an empty stomach. Some side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and depression. The brand name Atripla isn't sold anymore, but you can still get this medication as a generic.

Indications for Atripla

HIV treatment

Pros and Cons for Atripla

Pros

Is a full HIV treatment regimen
Combines 3 HIV medications into 1 tablet for convenience
Taken once a day
Not likely to cause weight gain
Okay for children weighing at least 88 lbs to take

Cons

Must take on an empty stomach, preferably at bedtime
Might have strange dreams while taking
Interacts with other medications, including some other HIV medications and hepatitis C medications
Risk of kidney and bone problems
Not recommended for people with moderate or severe kidney or liver problems

Common Side Effects for Atripla

Tiredness (9%)
Depression (9%)
Nausea (9%)
Diarrhea (9%)
Dizziness (8%)
Upper respiratory tract infections (8%)
Sinus infection (8%)
Rash (7%)
Headache (6%)

Warnings for Atripla

Worsening of hepatitis B infection in people with HIV and hepatitis B
Liver problems
Effects on mental health
Side effects related to the nervous system (e.g., dizziness, trouble sleeping)
Kidney problems
Bone problems
Lactic acidosis
Overactive immune system
Changes in body fat
Interactions with other medications
Harm to an unborn baby

Summary for Triumeq

Prescription only

Triumeq is a single-tablet regimen used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It contains 3 antiretrovirals (ARVs): abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine. Triumeq is available as either a tablet or a dissolvable tablet for oral suspension (Triumeq PD), but the two are not the same. Before starting treatment, your provider will require you to get a genetic test to see if you're at risk for developing a serious allergic reaction to this medication.

Indications for Triumeq

Treatment of HIV infection (in people who weigh at least 13 pounds)

Pros and Cons for Triumeq

Pros

Only taken once a day for complete HIV treatment
Combines three medications into one pill for convenience
Can be taken with or without food
Available for adults and children at or over 22 lbs

Cons

Dose can't be adjusted so it's not recommended for people with kidney or liver problems
Not safe to use in severe liver problems
Requires a genetic test before starting
Interacts with a lot of medications such as St. John’s wort and oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)

Common Side Effects for Triumeq

Higher lipase levels (suggesting irritated pancreas) (up to 11%)
Higher blood sugar levels (up to 9%)
Higher creatine kinase levels in the blood (suggesting muscle damage) (up to 7%)
Higher fat levels in the blood (up to 6%)
Higher white blood cell count (up to 4%)
Abnormal liver labs (up to 3%)
Trouble sleeping (3%)
Headache (2%)
Feeling tired (2%)

Please note: The side effects listed above are from clinical trials with Tivicay (dolutegravir) and Epzicom (abacavir / lamivudine), which are all active ingredients in Triumeq and Triumeq PD